Travelodge has officially broken ground on a new 100-room hotel in Loughton, marking the latest addition to the UK’s first budget hotel brand’s expanding portfolio. The company, which operates more than 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, is aiming to meet growing demand for affordable accommodation with the development. The new hotel is located just off the M11, with convenient access to the M25. It is just an eight-minute walk from Debden Underground Station, providing direct Central line services into central London. For motorists, on-site parking is available, and Stansted Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive away. Guests will also benefit from nearby amenities including Epping Forest Shopping Park and the expansive green spaces of Epping Forest. Designed to meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers, the hotel will feature Travelodge’s latest premium look, including a contemporary reception area, upgraded next-generation rooms, and the new 85 Bar Café. The development is part of a wider mixed-use scheme that includes office and self-storage space. The standalone hotel is being delivered by Higgins Group as the developer, with Barnes Construction serving as the principal contractor. Tony O’Brien, UK Development Director at Travelodge, said: “We’re excited to begin construction on our new hotel in Loughton, further strengthening our presence across the Greater London area. This is a prime location for commuters, shoppers, and visitors, and our hotel will provide a well-connected, great-value base for all types of travellers. We’re pleased to see work now underway and look forward to welcoming guests when the hotel opens at the end of next year.” The project is also expected to provide a boost to the local economy by creating new jobs and increasing visitor numbers to the area. Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer of Higgins Group, added: “We’re really pleased that work is now underway on the new Travelodge at our Langston Road site. This marks a significant step forward in the wider redevelopment of the site.” The hotel is due to open by the end of next year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Wingstop has continued its rapid UK expansion with the launch of a new restaurant at Westfield London in Shepherd’s Bush. Situated on the Lower Mall, the new 3,379 sq ft venue offers seating for over 136 diners and marks another significant step in the fried chicken chain’s strategic growth across the capital. It follows the brand’s global flagship opening at Westfield Stratford City last year. The Westfield London branch serves Wingstop’s signature selection of wings, tenders, and burgers, complemented by an array of sides, milkshakes, desserts, and beers. Chris Sherriff, CEO of Wingstop UK, commented: “We’re thrilled to open at Westfield Shepherd’s Bush, the UK’s largest shopping centre. This launch builds on the success of our Stratford flagship and represents the next milestone in our London expansion. With demand for our flavours at an all-time high, 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional year. A huge thank you goes out to our loyal customers and our teams for making this possible.” Wingstop first entered the UK market in 2018 and has rapidly grown its presence. Earlier this year, the brand announced its most ambitious pipeline to date, with plans to launch over 20 new sites across the UK in 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Travelodge, the UK’s first budget hotel brand, which operates over 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, has officially commenced construction of a new 100-room hotel in Loughton. Conveniently located just off the M11 with easy access to the M25, the new hotel is an 8-minute walk from Debden Underground Station, offering direct Central line services into central London. For those travelling by car, the hotel provides on-site parking and is around a 30-minute drive from Stansted Airport. Guests can also enjoy nearby retail and dining at Epping Forest Shopping Park, along with easy access to the open green spaces of Epping Forest. The hotel will feature Travelodge’s new premium design, including a modern reception area, next-generation rooms, and the stylish new 85 Bar Café – designed to meet the needs of business and leisure travellers alike. Part of a wider mixed-use scheme that includes office and self-storage space, the standalone hotel is being delivered by Higgins Group as the developer and Barnes Construction as the principal contractor. As Travelodge continues to grow its portfolio across the UK, the Loughton hotel represents a strategic addition to the portfolio, helping to meet growing demand for affordable accommodation within easy reach of London. The new hotel will also contribute to the local economy through job creation and increased visitor footfall. Tony O’Brien, UK Development Director comments: “We’re excited to begin construction on our new hotel in Loughton, further strengthening our presence across the Greater London area. This is a prime location for commuters, shoppers, and visitors, and our hotel will provide a well-connected, great-value base for all types of travellers. We’re pleased to see work now underway and look forward to welcoming guests when the hotel opens at the end of next year.” Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer of Higgins Group, comments, “We’re really pleased that work is now underway on the new Travelodge at our Langston Road site. This marks a significant step forward in the wider redevelopment of the site.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

KFC has announced plans to open more than 50 new restaurants across the UK in 2025, marking the next phase in a major £1.5 billion investment into its UK and Ireland estate. The fried chicken giant, which already operates over 1,000 outlets nationwide, is aiming to significantly grow its footprint, with a long-term goal of opening 500 new sites over the next ten years. Earlier this year, the brand confirmed it will invest £466 million over the next five years to support this expansion. As part of the strategy, KFC has also committed to refurbishing over 200 existing locations to enhance customer experience and modernise facilities. The company has now issued updated acquisition requirements as it actively seeks new opportunities for both freehold and leasehold premises. KFC is considering a range of locations including retail and leisure parks, development sites, high street units, travel hubs, shopping centres, and food courts. The brand is particularly focused on securing drive-through sites between 0.3 and 1.5 acres, as well as in-line units ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 square feet. KFC’s expansion is set to span the entirety of the UK and Ireland, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and visibility. To incentivise support from property professionals, the company is offering a finder’s fee of £20,000 for suitable site introductions. This ambitious programme reflects KFC’s continued confidence in the UK and Irish markets and its commitment to long-term growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Exciting Opportunity for Gym Operator as Leisure Use Approved for AM Sci Tech at Bridge of Don Site AM Sci Tech is pleased to announce that its planning application to change the use of the Innovation Centre at Aberdeen Energy Park has been approved by Aberdeen City Council. The decision grants permission to convert the building from Class 4 (Business Use) to Class 11 (Leisure Use), paving the way for the development of a high-quality gym or fitness facility at the heart of the growing Bridge of Don community. Located on Exploration Drive, the Innovation Centre is a modern, standalone building set over two floors and extending to approximately 14,000 sq ft (1,300 sq m). With a striking atrium, generous floorplan, high ceilings and excellent on-site parking, it offers an ideal setting for a gym operator looking to establish a presence in a vibrant and expanding area. The approved change of use comes at a time of major residential growth in the surrounding neighbourhood. With nearly 900 new homes under construction or in the planning pipeline from developers such as Cala and Persimmon Homes, demand for accessible fitness and leisure amenities has surged. The new facility will play a key role in supporting active lifestyles and enhancing community well-being. Gordon Pirie, Asset Manager at Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks, commented: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the change of use at the Innovation Centre. This approval marks a major step forward in delivering a new leisure facility that supports the needs of residents and businesses alike. A gym operator will bring real added value to the park and to the wider Bridge of Don area.” The site offers excellent connectivity to Aberdeen city centre and the wider region, with direct access to key arterial routes including the AWPR. Its location ensures convenience for both residents and the many professionals working within the business park. The introduction of a gym aligns with AM Sci Tech’s wider vision for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks as a multi-purpose destination, home to a mix of office, industrial, and now leisure amenities. This expansion will further enhance the park’s reputation as a hub for business, health, and lifestyle. With planning permission now secured, AM Sci Tech is actively seeking expressions of interest from gym operators and leisure providers ready to capitalise on this unique opportunity. For more information or to discuss potential opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact Gordon Pirie on 07525 240 453. Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Travelodge, the UK’s first budget hotel brand which operates over 610 hotels, has acquired a 155-year long leasehold interest in 6 Broad Street Place & 15-17 Eldon Street from the City of London Corporation. The property is being acquired within the Travelodge OpCo Group.  Located opposite Liverpool Street station, the acquisition covers two prominent adjacent buildings, totalling 58,893 sq ft net internal area, which are currently vacant and awaiting refurbishment. Subject to planning permission, Travelodge will convert the upper floors of both buildings into a hotel with an 85 Bar Café, offering a relaxed space for guests to eat and drink. The project will also reinstate pre-existing retail uses on the Ground Floor of 6 Broad Street Place.  The acquisition is an example of one element of Travelodge’s UK development strategy, sustainably expanding its network of hotels by converting existing, vacant office and retail buildings into new hotels. By repurposing redundant spaces, Travelodge aims to bring them back into active economic use, benefiting the local community and meeting the growing demand for budget accommodation.   Travelodge continues to see significant growth opportunities in the UK, with over 300 target locations identified following a comprehensive market review. The Group is successfully executing its development strategy, with 11 freehold and leasehold hotels opened in the year to date, and a further 4 hotels exchanged or completed. It is also exploring extension opportunities within its existing estate.  Internationally, Travelodge has an established profitable presence in Spain, currently operating 12 hotels. With plans to expand into 20 key markets in Spain, the Group aims to grow through new developments and freehold or leasehold rebrand acquisitions. Jo Boydell, CEO of Travelodge, comments: “The acquisition of 6 Broad Street Place and 15-17 Eldon Street marks another significant step in our UK development strategy as we continue to grow and optimise our hotel network. Office-to-hotel conversion is a sustainable way of developing, allowing us to meet the increasing demand for budget hotels while reducing the carbon impact that new development brings. We are also excited to expand our portfolio in London, where we currently operate over 80 hotels, with a further five developments underway.” The City Corporation was advised by Capital Real Estate Partners, while Travelodge was represented by Strettons. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

RED Construction Group, the specialist contractor, has announced the appointment of its Special Projects division by Clermont Hotel Group to complete the multimillion pound refurbishment works at The Tower Hotel by Thistle. This latest appointment joins the Group’s extensive experience in delivering hotel projects across London and the South West, leading on c.£110m worth of works, including the recent completion of voco Zeal Hotel at Exeter Science Park in 2024, the UK’s first branded net zero carbon hotel. Located within walking distance of many of London’s heritage attractions and the centre of St Katharine Dock, The Tower Hotel by Thistle first opened its doors in 1973, by Sir Richard Hull, the then Constable of the Tower of London. RED’s Special Projects team is upgrading the hotel’s iconic Tower and Bridge Suites and refurbishing key structural elements of the building to develop improved function and public spaces, enhancing the experience for guests, visitors and staff alike, led by the designs from Unwin Jones Partnership. Two of the hotel’s most popular function spaces, the Tower and Bridge Suites, which offer unrivalled views of the Thames and Tower Bridge, will be enhanced through new window glazing, timber panelling finishes and light fixtures. Moveable walls will also be installed across the suites, allowing them to be separated into six rooms, to cater for a variety of events from conferences to business meetings and public celebrations, while improvements will also be made to the existing washrooms. On the mezzanine level of the hotel, the current function room will be transformed into a vibrant public space, with the installation of a new concrete, waterproofed wall, high-quality IT infrastructure and planting. The Tower Hotel by Thistle will continue to remain in-operation while these works are carried out, with RED’s Special Projects team tasked with delivering high-quality finishes and maintaining the health and safety of staff and users across the building. Nathan Farrar, Manging Director of RED Special Projects, commented: “The Tower Hotel by Thistle is an important institution for London. We are pleased to have a Clermont Hotel Group property within our portfolio, providing a world-class experience for guests and businesses alike. Our work to refurbish the iconic Tower and Bridge Suites and other function areas will enable Clermont Hotel Group to diversify their offerings, and ensure the hotel remains an attractive space for users over the long-term. Hotel delivery forms an important part of our workflow, and we are expecting future growth in hotel refurbishment works over the next 12 months in London, and across the UK.” Iain Grieve, Senior Property Project Manager, at Clermont Hotel Group, added: “Since its opening, The Tower Hotel by Thistle has proved to be an enduring part of London’s landscape. We have always looked at ways in which we can enhance our offering to meet the needs of businesses, guests and visitors, and the refurbishment of suites and function areas forms an important part of this journey. With the team’s extensive track record in hotel delivery, RED Construction Group were the ideal partners to lead on the refurbishment.” This marks RED Construction Group’s 9 project across London and the South East, where they have developed an expertise in delivering high-quality refurbishments, as demonstrated by their work on Legoland Windsor’s Woodland Village, London Marriott Hotel County Hall and St Mark’s Square development in recent years. This is matched by RED’s work in hotels where they have delivered over 1,000 hotel beds (including 658 refurbished rooms), and the UK’s first branded net zero voco Zeal Hotel at Exeter Science Park, led by their South West division. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Work is due to begin this summer on a new £27.3 million leisure centre in Bishop Auckland, marking the start of Durham County Council’s flagship development under its Leisure Transformation Programme. The new facility will replace the aging Woodhouse Leisure Complex, the oldest in the council’s portfolio, and will become a key part of the council’s strategy to modernise leisure services across the region. The centre will be the fifth project delivered by Alliance Leisure for the council, following upgrades to facilities in Consett, Abbey, Peterlee, and Stanley. Funded primarily by Durham County Council, with an additional £2.5 million contribution from Sport England, the development is designed to promote health, wellbeing, and community cohesion—particularly in one of the county’s most deprived areas. Currently, 33% of residents in County Durham live in the top 20% most deprived areas nationally, and nearly 39% of adults are considered physically inactive. The Bishop Auckland leisure centre has been designed to address these challenges by offering modern, inclusive amenities aimed at encouraging physical activity for all ages and abilities. In a first for the region, the centre will also incorporate a public library, creating a multi-purpose community hub that combines leisure, education, health, and social engagement. Key features of the new facility will include a 25-metre, six-lane main swimming pool and a 20-metre, four-lane teaching pool with moveable floors. A large gym, two group exercise studios, and the council’s fourth Move Hub, an Innerva-equipped, power-assisted exercise studio designed to support users with reduced mobility—will also be included. The development will feature an indoor adventure play area to support children’s physical literacy and social development, a café for community use, and flexible community and cultural spaces. Outdoor active areas and a community garden will further enhance the site’s role as a neighbourhood focal point. Designed by GT3 Architects, the building will incorporate pitched roofs and expansive windows to maximise natural light while blending with the local architectural style. It aims to achieve a BREEAM Very Good rating and will operate entirely on electricity, utilising air source heat pumps and renewable energy systems to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. The project team includes contractor Morgan Sindall, project managers Axiom, planning consultancy DPP, and GT3 Architects as lead designers. The scheme was procured through the UK Leisure Framework, managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Travelodge, the UK’s first budget hotel brand, which operates over 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, has officially commenced construction of a new hotel in Douglas, Isle of Man. The 80-room Travelodge will be the company’s first hotel on the island. Located at Villiers Square on Fort Street in Douglas, 300m from the ferry terminal and just moments from the beach, the shopping district, the CBD (central business district) and local attractions, like the Manx Museum, the new-build hotel is part of a wider mixed-use development led by Tevir Group. The scheme also includes two Grade-A office buildings, designed to support local economic growth. The hotel will feature Travelodge’s new premium design, including a modern reception area, next-generation rooms, and the new stylish 85 Bar Café. Supporting the Isle of Man Government’s tourism strategy to create 500 new hotel bedrooms by 2032, the project is expected to generate 27 new jobs and provide a valuable boost to the local hospitality sector. The hotel is scheduled to open in Spring 2027. Tony O’Brien, UK Development Director, Travelodge said: “Breaking ground on our first hotel in Douglas is a significant milestone for Travelodge. We’ve long wanted to bring our quality, affordable accommodation to the Isle of Man, and this fantastic location at Villiers Square is the ideal setting. “It’s exciting to see construction now underway, marking the beginning of a new chapter for us on the island. We look forward to welcoming both leisure and business guests when the hotel opens its doors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals